What Will Minnesota's Drought Conditions Mean for Turtle and Frog Hibernation?
A specialist from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says some species may be forced to find alternative breeding and overwintering sites.
Q: Given the drought situation over most of Minnesota, how will turtles and frogs fair in finding suitable places to hibernate? A: Drought can have significant impacts locally and regionally on aquatic reptiles and amphibians, depending on the length of the drought. Species that breed in seasonal wetlands and ponds may be forced to find alternative breeding and overwintering sites. These alternative sites are often larger wetlands, ponds or lakes that have a more permanent water source. These sites often have fish and other predators that prey on amphibians and amphibian larva. Local populations can be depleted as a result of this use of alternative breeding and wintering sites. Another concern with prolonged drought is low oxygen levels. …
